The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has defended the tenure extension of some top officers, stating that it followed due process and received presidential approval.
Adeniyi is set to appear before the National Assembly today (Tuesday) to address concerns over the extension, which has sparked controversy within the agency. Reports suggest that several senior Customs officials, due for retirement, were granted a one year extension, allegedly through lobbying. This decision has raised concerns about its impact on career progression within the service.
Following a petition by the Obasi Pherson Help Foundation, the House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions invited Adeniyi to clarify the matter. Speaking in Ilorin during an official visit to the Kwara State command headquarters, he assured that all necessary approvals were obtained. “We operate within the law and we have nothing to fear,” he stated.
Adeniyi also highlighted ongoing efforts to combat petroleum smuggling, which he described as a major threat to Nigeria’s economy. Between January 14 and February 11, 2025, Customs operatives intercepted over 53,000 litres of petrol worth N53 million under Operation Whirlwind in Kwara State. He attributed the rise in smuggling to price differences between Nigeria and neighboring countries, calling it an act of economic sabotage.
He emphasized that the fight against oil smuggling requires advanced technology and collaboration with key stakeholders to protect the country’s resources.